Introduction
You are standing at the door, backpack on, water bottle tucked into the side pocket, and then you realize your yoga mat is still leaning against the wall. Carrying a rolled mat separately while commuting or traveling often feels like having an extra limb you didn’t ask for. It slips out from under your arm, bumps into people on the subway, or complicates your balance while you are biking to the studio. At Hugger Mugger, we believe your gear should support your movement, not hinder it. Whether you are walking to a local class or packing for a weekend retreat, knowing how to securely attach your mat to your bag makes the journey much smoother. This post covers effective ways to tie your mat using built-in backpack features, practice straps, and creative DIY solutions. Mastering these techniques ensures your hands are free and your practice tools are secure.
Quick Answer: The most secure way to tie a yoga mat to a backpack is by utilizing side compression straps or threading a D-ring yoga strap through the backpack's top handle or "daisy chain" loops to create a harness. Ensure the mat is rolled tightly and centered to maintain your balance during your commute.
The Foundation: Preparing Your Mat for Transport
Before you attempt to attach your mat to any bag, you must ensure it is rolled correctly. A sloppy, loose roll is the primary reason mats slide out of harnesses or "telescope" (where the inner layers slide out of the center) during transit.
Achieving the Perfect Roll
Start with a tight core. To get a roll that stays put, fold the leading edge over about an inch and press down firmly before you begin the full rotation. Use your palms to apply downward pressure as you roll, which removes air pockets and creates a dense, solid cylinder. If the roll is spongy, the straps on your backpack will lose tension as the mat settles, leading to it slipping downward.
Align the edges. As you roll, keep the side edges perfectly flush. If one side starts to angle out, unroll a few inches and realign. A mat with uneven ends is much harder to secure because the straps won't be able to grip the material evenly across its width.
Protecting the Practice Surface
Most practitioners roll their mat with the practice side (the side you stand on) facing out. While this helps the mat lie flat when you unroll it, it exposes your grip surface to dust, rain, and city grime during your commute.
For long-distance travel or outdoor walks, consider rolling the mat with the practice side facing inward. Alternatively, you can use a lightweight mat cover. If you are still deciding which mat is best for your travel routine, our Yoga Mat Quiz is a helpful resource for comparing weight and durability.
Method 1: Utilizing Built-In Compression Straps
Many modern backpacks, especially those designed for hiking, commuting, or gym use, come with side compression straps. These are intended to cinch the bag's load closer to your back, but they double as excellent mat holders.
Step-by-Step Vertical Side Carry
This is the most common method for walkers and public transit users because it keeps your profile slim.
- Step 1: Loosen the straps. Unclip or loosen the two side compression straps on one side of your backpack.
- Step 2: Insert the mat. Slide your tightly rolled mat vertically through the loops created by the straps.
- Step 3: Secure the bottom. If your backpack has a mesh side pocket, place the bottom end of the mat inside the pocket. This acts as a "bucket" to prevent the mat from sliding out.
- Step 4: Tighten and cinch. Pull the compression straps as tight as possible. The mat should not wiggle when you shake the bag.
Balancing the Load
Carrying a heavy mat on only one side of your bag creates an asymmetrical load that can lead to shoulder or neck strain. If you are carrying a denser mat, like our Para Rubber Yoga Mat, try to balance the weight by placing a full water bottle or heavy books on the opposite side of the main compartment.
Key Takeaway: Built-in compression straps are the fastest way to carry a mat, but they require a very tight roll and a balanced load in the rest of your bag to prevent long-term discomfort.
Method 2: The Yoga Strap Lasso Technique
If your backpack does not have side straps, you can use your standard D-ring practice strap to create a custom attachment system. This is a favorite method for practitioners who already carry a yoga strap for their practice and don't want to buy extra gear.
Creating the External Holster
This method works best if your backpack has "daisy chain" loops (small webbing loops on the front) or a sturdy top grab handle.
- Thread the strap. Pass your yoga strap through the top handle or one of the webbing loops on the back of the bag.
- Create the loops. Use the D-rings to create a slip-knot loop at each end of the strap.
- Insert the mat. Slide one end of the rolled mat into each loop.
- Cinch it down. Pull the tail of the strap until the loops are snug against the mat. The mat will now hang horizontally or vertically depending on where you threaded the strap.
Why Cotton Straps Work Best
We have found that cotton webbing straps provide much better friction than synthetic nylon versions. The natural "bite" of cotton helps prevent the mat from sliding even if you are moving quickly. A standard 6-foot strap is usually sufficient for most mats, though an 8-foot strap is better if you have a very thick mat or want to wear the strap across your body.
Method 3: Securing Under a Top Flap or Brain
If you use a top-loading backpack or a bag with a large lid (often called a "brain" in hiking circles), you can secure the mat between the main compartment and the lid.
Best for Lightweight Mats
This technique is ideal for lightweight mats like the Tapas ECO Mat. Because this mat is made from TPE and recycled materials, it is lighter than traditional rubber, making it less likely to make your bag "top-heavy."
- Placement: Lay the rolled mat horizontally across the top of the main backpack opening.
- Securing: Pull the top flap over the mat and tighten the buckles that connect the flap to the front of the bag.
- Caution: Be mindful of your width. A horizontal mat can stick out several inches on either side of your body, making it easy to bump into doorways or people on a crowded bus.
Method 4: DIY Solutions for Bags Without Straps
If your bag is a simple school-style backpack with no external straps or flaps, you can still get your mat to class hands-free with a few inexpensive tools.
Bungee Cords and Tension
Bungee cords are excellent because they provide constant tension. Hook one end of a short bungee cord to the shoulder strap adjustment loop, wrap it tightly around the mat twice, and hook the other end to the bottom adjustment loop. The elasticity keeps the mat from shifting even as your bag's contents move.
Carabiners and Auxiliary Loops
If your bag has small accessory loops, you can use two large carabiners and two heavy-duty rubber bands or hair ties.
- Place the rubber bands around each end of the mat.
- Clip a carabiner to each rubber band.
- Clip the carabiners to the loops on your backpack.
Note: This method allows the mat to swing more than other techniques. It is better for short walks than for biking or vigorous commuting.
Choosing the Right Mat for Your Commute
The weight and material of your mat significantly impact how well it stays attached to a backpack. We have been making mats since 1986, and we've observed how different materials behave during transport.
Weight vs. Grip Comparison
| Mat Type | Weight Category | Best Attachment Method |
|---|---|---|
| Tapas Original | Lightweight | Side compression or yoga strap |
| Tapas ECO Mat | Lightweight | Under-flap or top-lid carry |
| Para Rubber Mat | Heavyweight | Double side straps or vertical carry |
| Sattva Jute Mat | Midweight | Yoga strap loops (textured grip) |
Lightweight Mats (under 3 lbs): These are the easiest to carry. They don't distort the shape of your bag or cause significant balance issues. Our Tapas Original mat is a flagship for a reason—it’s durable yet light enough for daily commuting.
Heavy-Duty Mats (over 5 lbs): Natural rubber mats provide incredible grip but require more robust attachment points. If you use a heavy mat, always use at least two points of contact (two straps) to ensure it stays secure and doesn't pull on your backpack's stitching. Browse the yoga mat collection to compare available mat styles.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
Even with a great setup, you might run into a few hurdles. Here is how to troubleshoot the most common mat-carrying issues.
Preventing the "Telescope" Slide
If the center of your mat starts to slide out of the roll while you walk, it is usually because the roll wasn't tight enough at the start.
- The Fix: Use your palms to squeeze air out as you roll. If it persists, move your attachment straps closer to the center of the mat rather than the ends. This creates more uniform pressure to hold the inner layers in place.
Reducing Shoulder and Back Strain
Carrying an extra 3 to 6 pounds on the outside of a bag changes your center of gravity.
- The Fix: If your bag has them, always use the sternum (chest) strap and waist belt. These distribute the weight across your torso rather than just your shoulders. If you carry your mat vertically on one side, switch sides every few days to prevent muscle imbalances.
Biking Safety and Clearance
Biking presents a unique safety challenge. You cannot have a mat swinging into your wheels or hitting your legs.
- The Fix: Never bike with a horizontally attached mat. It is a safety hazard for you and others. A vertical carry is mandatory. Ensure the bottom of the mat does not hit your bike seat or the rear tire. If the mat is too long, you may need to attach it higher up on the backpack frame.
Bottom line: Preparation is everything. A tight roll and high-tension straps will solve 90% of mat-carrying frustrations.
Alternatives to Backpack Attachment
If tying your mat to your backpack feels too cumbersome, there are other ways to stay mobile.
Dedicated Mat Slings
A carrier like our Simple Sling is a minimalist’s dream. It consists of two loops connected by a single shoulder strap. While it doesn't attach to your backpack, it allows you to wear the mat cross-body, which can be more comfortable than having it dangling from a bag. Explore mat carriers and bags for additional transport options.
Full Mat Bags
For long-distance travel or rainy days, a full bag like our Batik Mat Bag is superior. It protects the mat from the environment and usually has enough extra room for a strap and a small towel. Many practitioners find that carrying a backpack on their back and a mat bag over one shoulder is the most stable way to transport a full kit.
Conclusion
Yoga is about finding ease and steadiness, and that philosophy should extend to how you transport your tools. Whether you are using built-in compression straps or a DIY bungee setup, the key to success is a tight roll and secure tension. At Hugger Mugger, we have spent nearly four decades helping practitioners find the right gear for their unique journey. From our flagship mats to the props used in studios worldwide, our goal is to provide reliable, high-quality equipment that lasts. By mastering the art of the backpack carry, you make your practice more accessible and your commute a little more mindful. Ready to find the perfect mat for your next adventure? Use our Yoga Mat Guide to compare materials and features before you choose your next travel companion.
FAQ
Will tying my mat to my backpack damage the material?
Most high-quality mats are resilient and can handle being strapped to a bag. However, if you cinch thin straps extremely tight on a very soft or "squishy" mat, it may leave temporary indentations. To avoid permanent marks, don't leave the mat strapped to the bag for days at a time; unroll it as soon as you get home. For additional maintenance advice, review Yoga Mat Care & Cleaning Tips.
My backpack has no straps or loops. How can I carry my mat?
You can use a standard yoga strap to create a DIY shoulder sling and wear it over your backpack. Alternatively, you can use two large carabiners clipped to the top handle of your bag to hang the mat vertically, though this may cause the mat to swing as you walk. A purpose-built option is the Strap Sling Yoga Mat Carrier.
Is it better to carry a yoga mat vertically or horizontally?
Vertical carry is generally better for commuting and crowded urban environments because it keeps your profile slim. Horizontal carry (usually at the top or bottom of a bag) is better for long walks or hikes because it distributes the weight more evenly across your hips, provided the mat is perfectly centered. For more travel-focused packing ideas, read how to bring your yoga mat on a plane.
How do I stop my mat from sliding out of the straps when I walk?
The most common cause of sliding is a loose roll or "slick" mat material. Try rolling the mat more tightly. If it still slips, wrap a yoga strap around the mat once or twice at the attachment points to create extra friction between the mat and the backpack straps. For more rolling guidance, see how to roll a yoga mat for longevity and cleanliness.
